Focus on renewable energy, affordable rates

GRANT COUNTY - Incumbent Tom Flint is running for re-election to Grant County Public Utility District (PUD) commissioner position A At Large to protect and enhance dams, further dam recognition and keep affordable rates.

He noted he has farming experience and understands the needs of Grant County farmers concerning the role the PUD plays with agriculture.

"One of my primary goals it to get hydropower recognized by Washington state as a renewable resource, as we are the only state that currently does not," Flint noted.

His other goals include preserving low-cost energy, continuing stable rates, removing the season minimum for irrigation, paying long-term debt, reducing the cost of salmon protection and completing fiber-optic build-out in five years.

Fiber should be reviewed regularly to make sure it continues to meet goals, he said.

"I am a longtime advocate of agriculture and hydropower," Flint noted.

He is the Blacksands Irrigation District president and leads the Save Our Dams movement which prevented four dams from being removed from the Snake River.

"I am a tenured commissioner and have the most experience," Flint stated. "I have a proven track record over the last eight years, showing my willingness to listen to the people of Grant County and to provide leadership and common sense in approaching the many issues affecting (the PUD)."

He advised it's important to investigate all alternative energy options and consider their cost effectiveness.

Flint will work to make utility rates more affordable by reviewing departmental budgets, performance audits and finding ways to reduce the cost of salmon preservation, he said.